Adolescent cancer and the family

Abstract

The diagnosis of cancer during adolescence is an exceptionally traumatic experience for the patient and for their parents, brothers and sisters. As the adolescent undergoes intensive chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgery, the family have to adapt to having an ill member and the consequent disruption to all their lives. The first adolescent cancer unit in the UK was established in 1990 and has provided an ideal environment for psychological research investigating the impact of cancer on the family. Research in progress will be described after outlining the issues and concerns of adolescent cancer patients and their families.